It's Herping Season!

Guest post by Olivia Nicholson

Each year in early spring, something remarkable happens across the forests of Massachusetts. As snow melts and the first warm rains arrive, amphibians begin emerging from their winter shelters and making their way toward temporary wetlands known as vernal pools. For nature enthusiasts, this moment marks the start of herping season—the time of year when people venture outdoors to observe reptiles and amphibians in their natural habitats.

From quiet forest floors to shallow seasonal pools, these ecosystems come alive with movement, sound, and new life. Vernal pool season offers a unique opportunity to witness the interconnected relationships between amphibians, native plants, and the delicate habitats that support them.

What is Herping?

Herping is the practice of searching for and observing reptiles and amphibians in the wild. Many people associate herping with summer hikes or exploring rocky outcrops, but in New England, some of the most exciting herping happens during early spring nights.

On the first warm, rainy evenings of the season, amphibians migrate en masse to breeding sites. These “big nights” can reveal an incredible diversity of species moving across forest floors and roads as they head toward vernal pools. Observers may encounter species such as the striking yellow-spotted Spotted Salamander, the energetic breeding choruses of the Spring Peeper, or the explosive breeding migrations of the Wood Frog.

For many naturalists, witnessing these migrations is both thrilling and humbling—a reminder that even small, hidden ecosystems play a vital role in the rhythms of spring.

Eastern Newt (Notophthalmus viridescens) photo courtesy of Olivia Nicholson

The Magic of Vernal Pools

Vernal pools are temporary wetlands that fill with rainwater and snowmelt during the spring. Unlike permanent ponds, they typically dry out during the summer months. While this may seem like a disadvantage, it actually makes vernal pools incredibly valuable habitats.

Because they dry periodically, vernal pools do not support fish populations. This creates a safe breeding environment for amphibians whose eggs and larvae would otherwise be vulnerable to fish predators.

Species such as the Spotted Salamander, Blue-spotted Salamander, and Wood Frog depend heavily on these seasonal wetlands for reproduction. Adults migrate to the pools in early spring, laying eggs that hatch into aquatic larvae or tadpoles. These young amphibians must grow quickly, completing their development before the pools eventually dry later in the year.

Despite their temporary nature, vernal pools are among the most productive and important breeding habitats for amphibians in the region.

The Hidden Role of Native Plants

While amphibians may be the most visible residents of vernal pools, native plants play an essential supporting role in maintaining these ecosystems.

Plants such as Skunk Cabbage, Red Maple, Sensitive Fern, and Highbush Blueberry commonly grow in the damp forests and wetlands surrounding vernal pools. These plants help regulate moisture levels, stabilize soil, and provide shade that prevents pools from drying too quickly.

The fallen leaves from native trees and shrubs create thick layers of leaf litter across the forest floor. This leaf litter serves as critical shelter for amphibians during much of the year, providing protection from predators and helping maintain the moist conditions amphibians require for their permeable skin.

Additionally, native plants support diverse insect communities. These insects form the foundation of the food web that sustains amphibians throughout their life cycles.

Blue Stem Native's resident American Toad "Roberta" photo courtesy of Olivia Nicholson

Amphibians and Plants: An Ecological Partnership

Amphibians and native plants are deeply connected through their shared environment. Plants help create the cool, moist habitats amphibians need to survive, while amphibians play their own role in maintaining healthy ecosystems.

By feeding on insects and other invertebrates, amphibians help regulate populations that might otherwise damage vegetation. Their presence also contributes to nutrient cycling within forest and wetland ecosystems. When amphibians move between aquatic and terrestrial habitats, they transport nutrients between these environments, linking different parts of the ecosystem together.

Because amphibians are sensitive to environmental changes, their presence—or absence—can also serve as an indicator of ecosystem health. Healthy amphibian populations often signal that surrounding forests, wetlands, and plant communities are functioning well.

How You Can Celebrate Vernal Pool Season

Vernal pool season offers a wonderful opportunity for people to connect with nature and observe one of spring’s most fascinating natural events. There are many ways to participate:

• Visit local conservation areas that contain vernal pools

• Join guided amphibian migration walks

• Listen for the nighttime calls of spring peepers

• Look for salamander or frog egg masses in shallow pools

• Plant native species in your yard to support wildlife habitat

Organizations such as the Massachusetts Audubon Society and the Vernal Pool Association often host educational programs and volunteer opportunities related to vernal pool monitoring and amphibian conservation.

Practicing Responsible Herping

While herping can be a rewarding experience, it’s important to observe wildlife responsibly. Amphibians are vulnerable to habitat disturbance, disease, and environmental stress.

Responsible herping practices include:

• Observing animals without collecting them

• Avoiding handling amphibians whenever possible

• Staying on established trails

• Never disturbing egg masses or breeding sites

• Respecting protected habitats and private land

By observing wildlife carefully and respectfully, herpers can help ensure these fragile ecosystems remain intact for future generations.

Pickerel frog (Lithobates palustris) photo courtesy of Olivia Nicholson

A Season Worth Celebrating

Though they may appear small and temporary, vernal pools are incredibly important ecosystems that support a surprising diversity of life. Each spring, these shallow wetlands become the stage for remarkable amphibian migrations, new generations of frogs and salamanders, and a vibrant web of plant and animal interactions.

Celebrating herping season is more than just a chance to see fascinating animals—it’s an opportunity to appreciate the complex relationships that sustain healthy forests and wetlands.

So the next time a warm spring rain falls in Massachusetts, consider stepping outside and listening carefully. You might just hear the unmistakable chorus of spring peepers announcing that vernal pool season has arrived.